Whiteside East Top stands proud as the geographical high point of the fell
Whiteside (East Top)
Whiteside marks the rugged western terminus of the dramatic high ridge line stretching all the way across from Grisedale Pike and Hopegill Head, framing exceptional, steep-sided vistas right down over the waters of Crummock Water. Geographically, the mountain features three distinct high points along its undulating, rocky crest. The widely recognized "Wainwright" summit stands right at the western brink overlooking the lake; though it registers at a slightly lower height of 707 metres, Alfred Wainwright chose it as the definitive summit for his pictorial guides, and its individual prominence means it is independently classified as a Nuttall.
The actual, absolute geographical apex of the entire mass is known to modern cartographers and peak-baggers as the East Top. Situated roughly 400 metres further along the high ridge heading toward the steep drop-offs of Hopegill Head, this higher plateau reaches a much more substantial elevation of 719 metres. The top itself is features an incredibly raw, simple mountain layout, devoid of any significant permanent stone monuments or cairns. Walking between the two tops creates an exceptional high-altitude ridge traverse, presenting a fascinating cartographic riddle regarding which point truly defines the identity of this classic North Western giant.
Looking westward from the true East Top back along the spine toward the lower Wainwright summit
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